Legoland California

What’s new: Legoland’s Water Park opens Splash Zoo on Friday, a Duplo-themed play area designed for kids ages 1 to 3. Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium recently debuted Octopus Garden, an interactive exhibit that will teach you all you need to know about cephalopods. And at the main park, there’s the Star Wars Miniland exhibit, which opened in March.

Special events: The popular Star Wars Days, featuring costumed guests and appearance by Darth Vader, happens on June 18 and 19.

Cost and hours: Admission is $69 for ages 13 to 59; $59 for ages 3 to 12 and age 60 and over; admission to Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium or Legoland Water Park is not included. Aquarium-only tickets are $13 to $20; Water Park tickets are $12 more than the general admission price. Parking is $5-$20. Park opens at 10 a.m., and closing hours vary daily. It’s highly recommended to check the site for up-to-date information.

SeaWorld San Diego

What’s new: A new Shamu show, “One Ocean” debuts on Saturday ﻿and explores the ocean world through whales, giant fountains and music. Turtle Reef opens on June 18, offering guests an up-close look at more than 60 threatened or endangered sea turtles.

Special events: Late summer hours begin Saturdays and Sundays starting this weekend. The park stays open late nightly between June 18 through Aug. 28 and Sept. 3 through 5.

Cost and hours: Admission is $61.99 for ages 3 to 9; $69.99, 10 and over. Park hours vary between 9 or 10 a.m. opening time and varied closing hours. Parking is $8 to $17.

San Diego Zoo

What’s new: Panda Trek, an exhibit that showcases a variety of other animals living alongside giant pandas, will open this summer (date not specified). A newly renovated Wegeforth Bowl will feature a more interactive animal show.

Special events: Nighttime Zoo begins on June 25 with a celebration of China. Evening activities include animal meet and greets, lion dance performances and a closing-time carnival procession. Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Sept. 5.

Cost and hours: Admission is $40 for age 12 and up; $30, ages 3 to 11. Parking is free. Open daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

What’s new: Cheetah Run Safari, an experience that lets visitors see a cheetah run at full speed, has gone from being a paid event to something that’s included with the price of admission.

Special events: Safari Park stays open until 7 p.m. from July 2 to Aug. 21 and features Summer Safari — An African Extravaganza with music, contortionists, jewelry making and more activities throughout the park.

Cost and hours: Admission is $40 for age 12 and up; $30, ages 3 to 11. Parking is $10 and $7 for members. Open daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.